Shark repellent

ABSTRACT

Some embodiments may be of spearfishing apparatus fitted with at least one magnet configured to repel sharks away from the spearfishing apparatus. The spearfishing apparatus may be one or more of: a spearfishing shaft, a spearfishing tip, and/or a spearfishing gun. Some embodiments may be of personal floatation devices (PFDs) fitted with at least one magnet configured to repel sharks away from the PFDs. Some PFDs may be fitted with a tethered drop-down magnetic apparatus to protect lower extremities of a wearer of such PFDs. Such magnets may be electromagnets powered by batteries in some embodiments.

PRIORITY NOTICE

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/882,193 filed on Aug. 2,2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to repelling sharks, sharkrepellents, and more specifically to spearfishing shafts and personalfloatation devices (PFDs) that may comprise one or more shark repellingmeans, such as, by emitting a magnetic field.

COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may containmaterial that is subject to copyright protection. The owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightswhatsoever.

Certain marks (trademarks) referenced herein may be common law orregistered trademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated withthe applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of exampleand should not be construed as descriptive or to limit the scope of thisinvention to material associated only with such marks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Most species of sharks are generally harmless and not a nuisance tohumans; however, some species of sharks may attack humans and/or mayattack a given fish that a person may be hunting/fishing for. Forexample, when spearfishing, some species of sharks may attack a givenspeared fish and/or may attack the person who may be spearfishing.

Note, shark attacks are not limited to salt water. Some species ofpotentially dangerous sharks, such as, bull sharks, may be found infresh water and/or in brackish water.

It would be desirable if at least some portion of a spearfishing shaftwere able to repel sharks, in order to better enable the spearfisherperson to retain speared fishes without those speared fishes beingattacked by sharks. It would be desirable if at least some portion of aspearfishing shaft were able to repel sharks, in order to provideincreased safety to the spearfisher person from shark attacks. It wouldbe desirable if at least some portion of a spearfishing shaft were ableto actively emit a magnetic field in order to repel sharks.

Similarly, it would be desirable if at least some portion of alifejacket or a personal floatation device (“PFD”) were able to repelsharks, in order to provide increased safety to a person in the water(and using the given PFD) from shark attacks. It would be desirable ifat least some portion of a PFD were able to actively emit a magneticfield in order to repel sharks.

The inventions and embodiments, shown, described, and discussed herein,may be with respect to repelling and/or deterring sharks fromattacking/biting humans and from attacking/biting fish that have beenspeared. That is, the inventions and embodiments, may be with respect tosharks that have a history of attacking/biting humans, such as, but notlimited to, tiger sharks, bull sharks, great white sharks, reef sharks,mako sharks, blue sharks, and the like. That is, the inventions andembodiments may be directed to repelling and/or deterring sharks ofclass Chondrichthyes, sub-class Elasmobranchii, orders Carcharhiniformesand Lamniformes, and the like.

There is a need in the art for spearfishing gear that may repel sharksand/or deter sharks from attacking/biting a human holding suchspearfishing gear and/or deter sharks from attacking/biting a fishspeared with such spearfishing gear.

There is a need in the art for a PFD (personal floatation device) thatmay repel sharks and/or deter sharks from attacking/biting a personwearing such a PFD.

It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize otherlimitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding thepresent specification, embodiments of the present invention may describespearfishing shafts, spearfishing tips, spearfishing guns, and/or PFDs(personal floatation devices) having one or more magnets and/or amagnetized material(s) that may emit a magnetic field configured forrepelling sharks. Some embodiments may be of spearfishing apparatusfitted with (and/or constructed with) at least one magnet configured torepel sharks away from the spearfishing apparatus. Some embodiments maybe of personal floatation devices (PFDs) fitted with (and/or constructedwith) at least one magnet configured to repel sharks away from thepersonal floatation device.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a spearfishingshaft that may repel sharks.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide aspearfishing shaft and/or a spearfishing tip that may emit a magneticfield.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide aspearfishing shaft and/or a spearfishing tip that may emit a magneticfield that may repel sharks.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a personalfloatation device (“PFD”) (e.g., a lifejacket) that may repel sharks.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a PFD thatmay emit a magnetic field.

It is yet another objective of the present invention provide a PFD thatmay emit a magnetic field that may repel sharks.

These and other advantages and features of the present invention aredescribed herein with specificity so as to make the present inventionunderstandable to one of ordinary skill in the art, both with respect tohow to practice the present invention and how to make the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale inorder to enhance their clarity and improve understanding of thesevarious elements and embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, elementsthat are known to be common and well understood to those in the industryare not depicted in order to provide a clear view of the variousembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1A may depict a longitudinal side view of a spearfishing gunassembly, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1B may depict a longitudinal top view of a spearfishing gunassembly, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1C may depict a longitudinal side view of a spearfishing shaft withtip, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1D may depict a longitudinal perspective view of a “polespear” typeof spearfishing assembly, according to at least one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 1E may depict a cross-section through a diameter of a spearfishingshaft (or through a spear tip), showing where at least one magnet may belocated.

FIG. 1F may depict a cross-section through a diameter of a spearfishingshaft (or through a spear tip), showing where at least one magnet may belocated.

FIG. 1G may depict a cross-section through a diameter of a spearfishingshaft (or through a spear tip), showing where at least one magnet may belocated.

FIG. 1H may depict a portion of a given length of spearfishing shaftshowing where at least one magnet may be located.

FIG. 2A may depict a front view of a Type I personal floatation device(“PFD”), according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2B may depict a front view of a Type II PFD, according to at leastone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2C may depict a front view of a Type III PFD, according to at leastone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2D may depict a front view of a Type IV PFD, according to at leastone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2E may depict a front view of a Type V PFD, according to at leastone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2F may depict a front view of another Type V PFD, according to atleast one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 may depict a cross-section through a portion of PFD panel,showing where at least one magnet may be located.

FIG. 4A may depict a given PFD in a state of being unworn and beingopened at its front to show an interior of a rear panel that may have adrop-down magnet apparatus affixed therein.

FIG. 4B may depict a given PFD in a state of being unworn and beingopened at its front to show an interior of a rear panel that may have adrop-down magnet apparatus deployed.

FIG. 5 may depict a cross-section of a given PFD showing beforedeployment a drop-down magnet apparatus may be disposed between a frontpanel and a rear panel of the given PFD.

REFERENCE NUMERAL SCHEDULE

-   100 speargun assembly 100-   101 speargun 101 (also known as, “gun 101”)-   103 spearfishing shaft 103 (also known as, “shaft 103”)-   105 tip 105-   107 flopper 107-   109 end 109-   111 groove 111-   113 tab 113-   115 tip-attachment-end 115-   150 polespear 150-   151 elastic-loop 151-   171 core 171-   175 magnet 175-   201 Type I personal flotation device (“PFD”) 201-   202 Type II PFD 202-   203 Type III PFD 203-   204 Type IV PFD 204-   205 Type V PFD 205-   206 Type V PFD 206-   211 exterior cover 211-   213 strapping 213-   215 fastener 215-   217 reflector 217-   219 loop 219-   221 belt 221-   223 pull 223-   225 compartment 225-   231 front panel 231-   233 rear panel 233-   235 head support 235-   237 shoulder region 237-   311 interior cover 311-   315 floatation means 315-   321 magnet 321-   401 magnet holder 401-   403 tether 403-   405 hinge 405-   407 attachment means 407

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Note, the names (terms) assigned to reference numerals shown in thedrawings are intended to convey structural and/or functional informationof the given component, part, and/or structure.

Note, “PFD” as used herein may refer to “personal flotation device”and/or “life jacket.” PFD, personal flotation device, and/or life jacketmay be used interchangeably herein.

Note, “fitted with” language as used herein may be replaced with“constructed with” language.

As previously noted, the inventions and embodiments, shown, described,and discussed herein, may be with respect to repelling and/or deterringsharks from attacking/biting humans and also from attacking/biting afish that may be speared by humans during spearfishing. That is, theinventions and embodiments, may be with respect to sharks that have ahistory of attacking/biting humans, such as, but not limited to, tigersharks, bull sharks, great white sharks, reef sharks, mako sharks, bluesharks, and the like. That is, the inventions and embodiments may bedirected to repelling and/or deterring sharks of class Chondrichthyes,sub-class Elasmobranchii, orders Carcharhiniformes and Lamniformes, andthe like. At least one means of repelling and/or such sharks may bethrough deployed magnetic field, e.g., via one or more magnets.

In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments andapplications of the present invention, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings that form a part thereof, where depictions aremade, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which theinvention may be practiced. It is to be understood that otherembodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departingfrom the scope of the invention.

FIG. 1A through FIG. 1H may show various spearfishing apparatus that maybe fitted with (and/or constructed with) at least one magnet (e.g.,magnet 175) that may be configured to repel sharks away from the givenspearfishing apparatus element. In some embodiments, the spearfishingapparatus may be selected from one or more of: a speargun assembly 100,a spear gun 101 (gun 101), a spear shaft 103 (shaft 103), a spear tip105 (tip 105), portions thereof, combinations thereof, and/or the like.

FIG. 1A may depict a longitudinal side view of a spearfishing gunassembly 100, according to at least one embodiment of the presentinvention. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 may be locatedat one or more of: on a stock of gun 101; attached to the stock of gun101; within the stock of gun 101; at least partially embedded in thestock of gun 101; on a grip of gun 101; attached to the grip of gun 101;within the grip of gun 101; or at least partially embedded in the gripof gun 101; portions thereof; combinations thereof; and/or the like. Seee.g., FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1B may depict a longitudinal top view of spearfishing gun assembly100. FIG. 1C may depict a longitudinal side view of a spearfishing shaft103 with tip 105, according to at least one embodiment of the presentinvention. In some embodiments, spearfishing gun assembly 100 maycomprise a spearfishing gun 101 (gun 101) and a spearfishing shaft 103(shaft 103). In some embodiments, shaft 103 may be removably fitted to astock of gun 101 and with proper use, gun 101 may shoot (fire) shaft 103from gun 101. In some embodiments, gun 101 may be powered pneumatically(e.g., with compressed gas) and/or with one or more elastic bands/loops(often called “power band(s)).

Discussing FIG. 1C, in some embodiments, shaft 103 may be anelongate-member. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may be substantially(mostly) elongate. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may be cylindrical. Insome embodiments, shaft 103 may be substantially (mostly) cylindrical.In some embodiments, at least a portion of shaft 103 may be hollow. Insome embodiments, shaft 103 may be substantially comprised of (made of):steel, stainless steel, spring steel, hardened steel, aluminum,graphite, carbon fiber, plastic, ferrous materials, materials capable ofbeing magnetized, magnets, combinations thereof, and/or the like. Insome embodiments, shaft 103 may have two opposing terminal ends. In someembodiments, these two opposing terminal ends may be denoted as end 109and tip-attachment-end 115. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may comprisespearfishing tip 105 (tip 105). In some embodiments, tip 105 may havesharp and/or pointed tip end configured for piercing and/or puncturingat least a portion of a given target prey (such as, but not limited, tosome type of fish). In some embodiments, tip 105 may comprise one ormore barbs, configured to minimize unintended slippage of tip 105 fromthe pierced/punctured target prey. In some embodiments, tip 105 maycomprise one or more flopper(s) 107, wherein such a flopper 107 mayfunction as a barb. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may terminate at oneof its terminal ends into tip 105. In some embodiments,tip-attachment-end 115 may be attached to tip 105. In some embodiments,tip-attachment-end 115 may be removably attached to tip 105. In someembodiments, tip-attachment-end 115 may be removably attached to tip 105via a threaded connection. In some embodiments, tip-attachment-end 115may be removably attached to tip 105 via a magnetic connection. In someembodiments, shaft 103 may comprise one or more groove(s) 111. In someembodiments, groove 111 may be a notch into shaft 103. In someembodiments, a given groove 111 may be configured to removably engage aportion of gun 101 (such as, but not limited to, a portion of the gun's101 power bands). In some embodiments, shaft 103 may comprise one ormore tab(s) 113. In some embodiments, a given tab 113 may be configuredto removably engage a portion of gun 101 (such as, but not limited to, aportion of the gun's 101 power bands). In some embodiments, embodiments,tab 113 may be known as a “shark fin tab.”

Continuing discussing FIG. 1C, in some embodiments, at least one magnet175 of a given spearfishing apparatus may be located at one or more of:covering most of shaft 103; covering at least a portion of shaft 103; onshaft 103; attached to shaft 103; within shaft 103; comprising shaftmaterial; at least partially embedded in shaft 103; on a terminal end(e.g., tip-attachment-end 115 and/or end 109) of shaft 103; at aterminal end (e.g., tip-attachment-end 115 and/or end 109) of shaft 103;portions thereof, combinations thereof, and/or the like. See e.g., FIG.1C.

FIG. 1D may depict a longitudinal perspective view of a polespear 150type of spearfishing assembly, according to at least one embodiment ofthe present invention. In some embodiments, polespear 150 may not need agun 101 for proper operation. In some embodiments, polespear 150 maycomprise shaft 103. In some embodiments, shaft 103 of polespear 150 mayshare at least one property with shaft 103 of spearfishing gun assembly100, except that shaft 103 of polespear 150 may be longer and/or may behave a larger cross-sectional diameter as compared to shaft 103 ofspearfishing gun assembly 100. In some embodiments, shaft 103 (ofpolespear 150) may be an elongate-member. In some embodiments, shaft 103(of polespear 150) may be substantially (mostly) elongate. In someembodiments, at least a portion of shaft 103 (of polespear 150) may behollow. In some embodiments, shaft 103 (of polespear 150) may becylindrical. In some embodiments, shaft 103 (of polespear 150) may besubstantially (mostly) cylindrical. In some embodiments, shaft 103 (ofpolespear 150) may have two opposing terminal ends. In some embodiments,these two opposing terminal ends may be denoted as end 109 andtip-attachment-end 115. In some embodiments, shaft 103 (of polespear150) may comprise tip 105. In some embodiments, tip 105 may comprise oneor more barbs. In some embodiments, tip 105 may comprise one or moreflopper(s) 107, wherein such a flopper 107 may function as a barb. Insome embodiments, shaft 103 (of polespear 150) may terminate at one ofits terminal ends into tip 105. In some embodiments, tip-attachment-end115 may be attached to tip 105. In some embodiments, tip-attachment-end115 may be removably attached to tip 105. In some embodiments,tip-attachment-end 115 may be removably attached to tip 105 via athreaded connection. In some embodiments, tip-attachment-end 115 may beremovably attached to tip 105 via a magnetic connection. In someembodiments, proximate to end 109 of shaft 103 (of polespear 150) maycomprise an elastic-loop 151 for providing a propulsion means topolespear 150. In some embodiments, proximate to end 109 of shaft 103(of polespear 150) may be attached to elastic-loop 151. In someembodiments, elastic-loop 151 may be substantially comprised of at leastone elastomer.

In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 may be located at one ormore of: covering most of tip 105; on tip 105; attached to tip 105;within tip 105; at least partially embedded in tip 105; on a terminalend of tip 105; at a terminal end of tip 105; portions thereof;combinations thereof; and/or the like. See e.g., FIG. 1C and/or FIG. 1D.

In some embodiments, at least some portion of shaft 103 may bemagnetized. In some embodiments, at least some portion of shaft 103 maybe one or more magnets. In some embodiments, at least some portion ofshaft 103 may have one or more magnets. In some embodiments, at leastsome interior portion of shaft 103 may be magnetized. In someembodiments, at least some interior portion of shaft 103 may have one ormore magnets. In some embodiments, at least a portion of shaft 103 maybe comprised of one or more materials that may be magnetized. In someembodiments, at least a portion of shaft 103 may be comprised of one ormore ferrous materials that may be magnetized. In some embodiments, atleast a portion of shaft 103 may be comprised of one or more electricmagnets. In some embodiments, the electric magnets may be powered by oneor more batteries. In some embodiments, the batteries may be part ofshaft 103 and/or in communication with shaft 103. In some embodiments,at least some portion of shaft 103 may emit a magnetic field. In someembodiments, at least some portion of shaft 103 may emit a magneticfield that is stronger than a comparable non-magnetized spearfishingshaft. In some embodiments, at least some interior portion of shaft 103may comprise one or more magnets. In some embodiments, at least someinterior portion of shaft 103 may hold one or more magnets. In someembodiments, magnetic emissions of shaft 103, and/or its components, mayrepel sharks. This paragraph may be with respect to shaft 103 ofspeargun assembly 100 and/or of polespear 150. In some embodiments,components, parts, structures, and/or geometry of shaft 103 that thisparagraph may be applicable to, may include at least some portion ofshaft 103, tip 105, flopper 107 (barb), end 109, groove 111, tab 113,portions thereof, combinations thereof, and/or the like.

FIG. 1E may depict a cross-section through a diameter of shaft 103 (orthrough tip 105), showing where at least one magnet 175 may be located.In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175, of shaft 103, may be anannular ring and/or an annular sheath that may be substantially surroundan elongate shaft core 171 of shaft 103. In some embodiments, shaft core171 may be an elongate and substantially cylindrical member. In someembodiments, shaft core 171 may provide at least some structuralstrength and/or rigidity to shaft 103. In some embodiments, shaft core171 may be substantially comprised of (made of): steel, stainless steel,spring steel, hardened steel, aluminum, graphite, carbon fiber, plastic,ferrous materials, materials capable of being magnetized, magnets,combinations thereof, and/or the like. In some embodiments, with respectto a radial center of shaft 103, shaft core 171 may be located disposedsurrounding this radial center. In some embodiments, at least portionsof at least one magnet 175 and at least portions of shaft core 171 maybe concentric with respect to each other. In some embodiments, at leastportions of at least one magnet 175 and at least portions of shaft core171 may be coaxial with respect to each other. In some embodiments, atleast one magnet 175 may completely surround shaft core 171. In someembodiments, at least one magnet 175 may surround substantially all ofshaft core 171. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 maysurround most of shaft core 171. In some embodiments, at least onemagnet 175 may surround a majority of shaft core 171. In someembodiments, at least one magnet 175 may surround at least a portion ofshaft core 171. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 may be oneor more annular rings of magnets that may surround portions of shaftcore 171. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 together withshaft core 171 may form shaft 103. In some embodiments, the shaft core171 may be constructed of magnetized materials. In some embodiments,shaft core 171 may comprise one or more batteries configured forelectrically powering at least one magnet 175 and/or other magnet(s),when at least one of those magnets are an electromagnet. In someembodiments, shaft 103 may comprise at least one magnet 175 and a shaftcore 171. In some embodiments, both at least one magnet 175 and shaftcore 171 may be elongate cylindrical members. In some embodiments, atleast one magnet 175 and shaft core 171 may be substantially concentricwith respect to each other over a majority of a length of shaft 103. Seee.g., FIG. 1E.

In some embodiments, reference numeral 103 in FIG. 1E may be replacedwith reference numeral 105, and then the above discussion of FIG. 1E maybe applicable to a cross-section through tip 105.

FIG. 1F may depict a cross-section through a diameter of shaft 103 (orthrough tip 105), showing where at least one magnet 175 may be located.In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 may form at least a portionof a core of shaft 103. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 mayform a core of shaft 103. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175may be one or more elongate members. In some embodiments, at least onemagnet 175 may be one or more cylindrical members. In some embodiments,with respect to a radial center of shaft 103, at least one magnet 175may be located disposed surrounding this radial center. In someembodiments, at least portions of shaft 103 and at least portions of atleast one magnet 175 may be concentric with respect to each other. Insome embodiments, at least portions of shaft 103 and at least portionsof at least one magnet 175 may be coaxial with respect to each other. Insome embodiments, shaft 103 may completely surround at least one magnet175. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may surround substantially all of atleast one magnet 175. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may surround mostof at least one magnet 175. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may surrounda majority of at least one magnet 175. In some embodiments, shaft 103may surround at least a portion of at least one magnet 175. In someembodiments, shaft 103 may be one or more annular rings that maysurround portions of at least one magnet 175. In some embodiments, atleast one magnet 175 may be substantially an elongate cylindrical memberthat may form a core of shaft 103, with at least one magnet 175substantially occupying an axial center of shaft 103. See e.g., FIG. 1F.

In some embodiments, reference numeral 103 in FIG. 1F may be replacedwith reference numeral 105, and then the above discussion of FIG. 1F maybe applicable to a cross-section through tip 105.

FIG. 1G may depict a cross-section through a diameter of shaft 103 (orthrough tip 105), showing where a plurality of magnets 175 may belocated. In some embodiments, shaft 103 may comprise a plurality ofmagnets 175. In some embodiments, at least some of the plurality ofmagnets 175 may run longitudinally within shaft 103. In someembodiments, with respect to a cross-section through a diameter of shaft103, the at least some of the plurality of magnets 175 may be evenlydispersed/disposed within shaft 103. In some embodiments, the at leastsome of the plurality of magnets 175 may be one or more elongatemembers. In some embodiments, the at least some of the plurality ofmagnets 175 may be one or more cylindrical members. In some embodiments,at least one magnet 175 may be a plurality of magnets 175 that may bedispersed substantially equidistant from each other within shaft 103.See e.g., FIG. 1G.

In some embodiments, reference numeral 103 in FIG. 1G may be replacedwith reference numeral 105, and then the above discussion of FIG. 1G maybe applicable to a cross-section through tip 105.

FIG. 1H may depict a portion of a given length of shaft 103 (or of agiven length of tip 105) showing where at least one magnet 175 may belocated. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 may be an elongatemember. In some embodiments, a length of at least one magnet 175 may besubstantially parallel with a length of shaft 103. Note, at least onemagnet 175 shown in FIG. 1H may be located on an exterior of shaft 103and/or within an interior of shaft 103; that is, in some embodiments,FIG. 1H may be of an exterior view of a given portion of shaft 103;whereas, in other embodiments, FIG. 1H may be of a lengthwisecross-section through a portion of shaft 103. In some embodiments, atleast one magnet 175 and shaft 103 may be both elongate members that aresubstantially parallel with each other with respects to lengths of atleast one magnet 175 and of shaft 103. See e.g., FIG. 1H.

In some embodiments, reference numeral 103 in FIG. 1H may be replacedwith reference numeral 105, and then the above discussion of FIG. 1H maybe applicable to a given length of tip 105.

In some embodiments, the given speargun assembly 100 may comprise ameans for retrieving a fired/shot shaft 103, comprising a form of tetherthat is attached to both the gun 101 and to the shaft 103, in someembodiments, a reel to house at least a portion of the tether when notdeployed. In such embodiments, the gun 101 may comprise one or morebatteries (e.g., in and/or the stock and/or in or on the grip/handle);and the tether may be configured to transmit electrical power from theone or more batteries to one or more electromagnets 175 of the shaft103.

In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175 may be an electromagnet175. In some embodiments, the spearfishing apparatus may comprise atleast one battery configured to provide electrical power toelectromagnet 175. In some embodiments, electromagnet 175 and the atleast one battery may be operatively linked with each other.

Note, in some embodiments the above discussed magnet(s) (e.g., magnet(s)175) used in and/or on the various spearfishing apparatus elements forrepelling sharks, are not intended to be used in a magnet's typicalattractive applications.

However, in some embodiments, a magnet's attractive uses may be asecondary ancillary/collateral function of the magnet(s) (e.g.,magnet(s) 175) used for repelling sharks associated with the variousspearfishing apparatus elements.

The PFDs shown, described, and discussed herein (see e.g., FIG. 2Athrough FIG. 5) may be configured to minimize unintentional submergingof a face of a wearer of the given PFD, when the wearer is properlywearing the given PFD, and both the wearer and that PFD are within somewater.

In FIG. 2A through FIG. 5, a given PFD may be fitted with (and/orconstructed with) at least one magnet 321 that may be configured torepel sharks away from that given PFD.

FIG. 2A may depict a front view of a Type I PFD (“personal floatationdevice”) 201, according to at least one embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 2B may depict a front view of a Type II PFD 202,according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2Cmay depict a front view of a Type III PFD 203, according to at least oneembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2D may depict a front view ofa Type IV PFD 204, according to at least one embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 2E may depict a front view of a Type V PFD 205,according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2Fmay depict a front view of a Type V PFD 206, according to at least oneembodiment of the present invention. Note, Types I, II, III, IV, and VPFDs may be as substantially defined by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Most PFDs comprise one or more floatation elements (see e.g., floatationmeans 315 in FIG. 3) that are surrounded by some form of exteriorcovering, such as exterior cover 211. That is, each of the PFDs shown inFIG. 2A through FIG. 2F comprises one or more interior floatationelements; however, because these are interior elements, these one ormore interior floatation elements are not explicitly shown in FIG. 2Athrough FIG. 2F; whereas, at least portions of exterior cover 211 areshown. Exterior cover 211 is often some form of fabric, synthetic and/ornatural. Exterior cover 211 may be substantially waterproof (or not).Exterior cover 211 may be substantially windproof (or not). Portions ofexterior cover 211 are often brightly colored (such as, but not limitedto, bright reds, oranges, yellows, greens, combinations thereof, and/orthe like) to aid in rescue operations and/or to prevent unintendedwatercraft collisions. The one or more floatation elements are generallysome form of foam and/or a substantially non-gas permeable bladder thatmay be filled with some gas (such as, but not limited to, air, nitrogen,carbon dioxide, combinations thereof, and/or the like). The foam and/orbladders may be sealed and/or divided into one or more panels and/orcompartments (often within exterior cover 211). The foam and/or bladders(when filled with the gas) may provide additional buoyancy to a personin water above the buoyancy of the person without such a PFD. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, foammay be the main buoyancy means in figures FIG. 2A through FIG. 2D;whereas, a compressed gas cylinder may be used to inflate substantiallynon-gas permeable bladder(s) in the PFDs shown in FIG. 2E and FIG. 2F.

Often PFDs may be shaped as some form of a garment, such as, but notlimited to, a vest, a fanny pack, a belt, combinations thereof, and/orthe like. See e.g., FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C, FIG. 2E, and FIG. 2F.Vest like PFDs often have two front panels 231 (e.g., left and rightsides) and at least one rear panel 233. In some PFD vests, front panels231 may cover over at least a portion of a front torso (e.g., chestand/or abdomen) region of the wearer. In some PFD vests, rear panel 233may cover over at least a portion of a back torso region of the wearer.Front panels 231 and/or rear panel 233 may comprise interior flotationmeans 315 (i.e., foam and/or gas bladders) that are covered over byexterior cover 211 and by interior cover 311 (see FIG. 3 for interiorflotation means 315 and for interior cover 311). The two front panelsare often removably attachable to each other (e.g., along a frontmiddle) by one or more fasteners (such as, but not limited to,fastener(s) 215, which may be zippers and/or side release buckles or thelike). In some PFD vests, shoulder region 237 may cover over theshoulder regions of the wearer. In some PFD vests, shoulder region 237may also be used as handles for another to grab a person wearing the PFDand assisting that person with exiting water. In some PFD vests,shoulder region 237 may be another section of foam/buoyancy covered byexterior cover 211 or may be merely straps or strapping 213. A givenfront panel 231 may be attached to rear panel 233 via at least oneshared shoulder region 237. A given front panel 231 may be also beattached to rear panel 233 via some side panel and/or some sidestraps/side strapping. Some vest like PFDs may also have head and/orneck pillows (head support 235), designed to (configured to) keep anunconscious person's face out of water. See e.g., head support 235 inFIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

On exterior cover 211 many PFDs may have one or more straps and/orstrapping 213. See e.g., FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2C. Strapping 213may also be commonly known as webbing. Strapping 213 is often aflexible, planar, ribbon like, elongate member, that may be braidedand/or woven, and often of a synthetic fabric, such as, but not limitedto, nylons, polyesters, and/or the like. Strapping 213 is often attachedto exterior cover 211. Strapping 213 is often sewn onto exterior cover211. Some strapping 213 may terminate in various fastener(s) 215 (suchas, but not limited to, side release buckles). Strapping 213 andfasteners 215 may be used to removably attach the given PFD to the givenperson. Strapping 213 and fasteners 215 may be used to removably tightenthe given PFD to the given person. Fasteners 215 may comprise siderelease buckles, buckles, zippers, snaps, ties, carabiners, Velcro(e.g., a section of loops and a complimentary section of hooks forremovable attachment to the section of loops), combinations thereof,and/or the like.

On exterior cover 211 many PFDs may have one or more patches and/orpanels of reflector(s) 217. See e.g., FIG. 2A. Reflector 217 may besubstantially shiny and/or reflector on its given exterior portions.Reflector 217 may be configured for reflecting at least some light.Reflector 217 may help in nighttime or otherwise poor visibility rescueoperations of a person wearing a given PFD with one or more reflector(s)217.

Some PFDs exist in two configurations, a seat cushion configuration,that upon need may be converted into a PFD configuration, see e.g., FIG.2D. Such a seat cushion/PFD may have one or more loop(s) 219 extendingfrom the given PFD that may be used as handles and/or worn by a person'sappendage(s). In some embodiments, PFD loop(s) 219 may go around aperson's leg(s) and/or a person's arm(s).

Some PFDs may have a belt 221 to help the given PFD be worn by the givenperson. See e.g., FIG. 2E and FIG. 2F. Some such belts may be ofstrapping 213.

The two different Type V PFDs shown in FIG. 2E and FIG. 2F, respectivelyare both inflatable types of PFDs, wherein by one pulling sufficientlyhard on handle 223, one may cause release of the included compressed gasinto one or more substantially non-gas permeable bladders.

In some embodiments, at least some portion of a given PFD may bemagnetized to actively emit a magnetic field to help repel sharks. Insome embodiments, a given PFD may comprise one or more magnets foremitting a magnetic field to help repel sharks. In some embodiments, atleast one magnetizable material and/or at least one magnet may belocated at the following one or more PFD locations: attached exteriorlyto exterior cover 211, on exterior cover 211, attached interiorly toexterior cover 211, inside of exterior cover 211, in physicalcommunication with foam, attached to strapping 213, part of strapping213, part of at least one fastener 215, under at least one reflector217, in at least one compartment 225, combinations thereof, and/or thelike. In some embodiments, the magnetizable material may be ferrousmaterial. In some embodiments, at least some portion of a given PFD mayemit a magnetic field that is stronger than a comparable non-magnetizedPFD. In some embodiments, magnetic emissions of a given PFD, and/or itscomponents, may repel sharks.

In some embodiments, any magnet disclosed herein may be an electromagnetthat may be powered by one or more batteries.

In some embodiments, any battery disclosed herein may be rechargeable.In some embodiments, any battery disclosed herein may benon-rechargeable.

FIG. 3 may depict a cross-section through a portion of PFD panel,showing where at least one magnet 321 may be located. The portion of PFDpanel shown in FIG. 3 may be a portion of a given front panel 231, aportion of a given rear panel 233, a portion of a given head support235, or a portion of a side panel that connects a given front panel 231to rear panel 233. The portion of PFD panel shown in FIG. 3 may compriseexterior cover 211 disposed opposite from interior cover 311. When thePFD may be worn, exterior cover 211 may generally face away from thewearer; whereas, interior cover 311 may generally face the wearer. Whenthe PFD may be worn, interior cover 311 may be in physical contact withskin or clothing of the wearer. Disposed between exterior cover 211 andinterior cover 311 may be one or more floatation means 315 configured toprovide buoyancy to the wearer of the given PFD. One or more floatationmeans 315 may be selected from foam and/or gas bladder(s). Portions ofexterior cover 211 may have one or more: compartments 225, reflectors217, strapping 213, fasteners 215, loops 219, belts 221, pulls 223,magnets 321, magnetizable materials, combinations thereof, and/or thelike. Portions of interior cover 311 may have one or more: compartments225, reflectors 217, strapping 213, fasteners 215, loops 219, belts 221,pulls 223, magnets 321, magnetizable materials, combinations thereof,and/or the like.

Continuing discussing FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the given PFD panelmay comprise at least one magnet 321. In some embodiments, the at leastone magnet 321 may be located: on an exterior of exterior cover 211; onan exterior of interior cover 311; attached to exterior cover 211;attached to interior cover 211; embedded at least partially withinexterior cover 211; embedded at least partially within interior cover311; disposed (such as, but not limited to, embedded) between exteriorcover 211 and interior cover 311; disposed between floatation means 315;within floatation means 315; on compartment 225; within compartment 225;attached to compartment 225 (e.g., interior or exterior of compartment225); attached to exterior cover 211 within compartment 211; onstrapping 213; attached to strapping 213; on front panel 231; attachedto front panel 231; within front panel 231; on rear panel 233; attachedto rear panel 233; within rear panel 233; on head support 235; attachedto head support 235; within head support 235; on should region 237;attached to shoulder region 237; within shoulder region 237; on loop219; attached to loop 219; on belt 221; attached to belt 221; portionsthereof; combinations thereof; and/or the like.

In some embodiments, at least one magnet 321 of a given PFD may have apredetermined shape, size, thickness, strength, type, combinationsthereof, and/or the like. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 321may be one or more electromagnets. In some embodiments, at least onemagnet 321 may have a shape, size, thickness, strength, type,combinations thereof, and/or the like configured to deter and/or rebelsharks from the emitted magnetic field. In some embodiments, at leastone magnet 321 of a given PFD may be one or more magnets 321. In someembodiments, at least one magnet 321 of a given PFD may be a pluralityof magnets 321.

In some embodiments, one or more batteries, for providing electricalpower to at least one magnet 321, may be located: on an exterior ofexterior cover 211; on an exterior of interior cover 311; attached toexterior cover 211; attached to interior cover 211; embedded at leastpartially within exterior cover 211; embedded at least partially withininterior cover 311; disposed between exterior cover 211 and interiorcover 311; disposed between floatation means 315; within floatationmeans 315; on compartment 225; within compartment 225; attached tocompartment 225 (e.g., interior or exterior of compartment 225);attached to exterior cover 211 within compartment 211; on strapping 213;attached to strapping 213; on front panel 231; attached to front panel231; within front panel 231; on rear panel 233; attached to rear panel233; within rear panel 233; on head support 235; attached to headsupport 235; within head support 235; on should region 237; attached toshoulder region 237; within shoulder region 237; on loop 219; attachedto loop 219; on belt 221; attached to belt 221; portions thereof;combinations thereof; and/or the like. For example, in some embodiments,one or more of reference numerals 321 in FIG. 3 are replaced with such abattery; wherein such a battery may be operatively connected to at leastone electromagnet 321, via electrical current (that may be switched onor off), to electrically power such an at least one electromagnet 321.In such a circuit that comprises such a battery and at least oneelectromagnet 321, along with the linking electrical wire(s), may be aswitch for turning on or off at least one electromagnet 321.

FIG. 4A may depict a given PFD in a state of being unworn and beingopened at its front to show an interior (e.g., interior cover 311) of arear panel 233 that may have a drop-down magnet apparatus affixedtherein. In some embodiments, the drop-down magnet apparatus whendeployed (see e.g., FIG. 4B for the deployed configuration) may providea magnet holder 401 (with one or more magnet(s) 321) that may danglebelow a majority of the given PFD in the water, via at least one tether403 that attaches the 401 back to the PFD, such that these dangledmagnet(s) 321 may emit a magnetic field in and/or over lower appendages(e.g., legs, thighs, lower legs, ankles, feet, toes, combinationsthereof, and/or the like) of the given PFD wearer. This may provide someshark repellent protection to lower body portions of the wearer of thegiven PFD. In some embodiment, such lowered and dangled magnet(s) 321may also protect other lower body regions of the wearer, such as, butnot limited to, regions at and/or around the pelvis of the wearer.

Continuing discussing FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, a given drop-downmagnet apparatus may comprise: at least one magnet holder 401, at leastone tether 403, at least one hinge 405, and at least one magnet 321. Insome embodiments, at least one magnet 321 may be in physicalcommunication with at least one magnet holder 401. In some embodiments,magnet holder 401 may be a housing, compartment, pocket, container,combinations thereof, and/or the like. In some embodiments, at least onemagnet 321 may be: attached to magnet holder 401; within magnet holder401; on magnet holder 401; at least partially embedded on magnet holder401; combinations thereof, and/or the like. In some embodiments, magnetholder 401, magnet 321, tether 403; combinations thereof, and/or thelike, may be configured to sink in water (including in salt water). Insome embodiments, magnet holder 401, magnet 321, tether 403;combinations thereof, and/or the like, may be configured to havesubstantially neutral buoyancy in water (including in salt water).

Continuing discussing FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, tether 403 may beconfigured to operate and/or function as a tether/leash, providing aphysical link between magnet holder 401 and the given PFD. In someembodiments, tether 401 may have a predetermined length. In someembodiments, tether 401 may have a predetermined length of a rangeselected from four inches to four feet. In some embodiments, tether 401may be an elongate member. In some embodiments, tether 401 may be aflexible member. In some embodiments, tether 401 may be an elasticmember. In some embodiments, tether 401 may have two opposing terminalends. In some embodiments, tether 401 may be attached to magnet holder401 at one of its opposing terminal ends and to the given PFD at itsother opposing terminal end. In some embodiments, one terminal end oftether 401 may be attached to rear panel 233. In some embodiments, oneterminal end of tether 401 may be attached to a bottom portion of rearpanel 233. In some embodiments, one terminal end of tether 401 may beattached to interior cover 311 of rear panel 233. In some embodiments,one terminal end of tether 401 may be attached to strapping 213 of rearpanel 233.

Continuing discussing FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, one terminal end oftether 401 may be attached to hinge 405. In some embodiments, hinge 405may be attached to the given PFD. In some embodiments, hinge 405 mayoperate/function as an intermediary linkage between tether 403 and thegiven PFD. In some embodiments, hinge 405 may operate/function as ahinge. In some embodiments, hinge 405 may a living (flexible) hinge. Insome embodiments, hinge 405 may be attached to rear panel 233. In someembodiments, hinge 405 may be attached to a bottom portion of rear panel233. In some embodiments, hinge 405 may be attached to interior cover311 of rear panel 233. In some embodiments, hinge 405 may be attached tostrapping 213 of rear panel 233.

In some embodiments, hinge 405 may be intended to be permanentlyattached to both tether 403 and to the given PFD.

In some embodiments, hinge 405 may be intended to be removably attachedto tether 403 and/or to the given PFD.

Continuing discussing FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, a given drop-downmagnet apparatus may further comprise at least one attachment means 407.In some embodiments, attachment means 407 may provide removableattachment of magnet holder 401 to a portion of interior cover 311 of afront panel 231 and/or attachment means 407 may provide removableattachment of magnet holder 401 to a portion of interior cover 311 ofrear panel 233. In some embodiments, attachment means 407 may be how thegiven drop-down magnet apparatus remains in the undeployed configurationas shown in FIG. 4A. Whereas, in the deployed configuration (see e.g.,FIG. 4B), attachment means 407 is not currently attached to a frontpanel 231 nor to rear panel 233. In some embodiments, attachment means407 may be predetermined mechanical fastener, such as, but not limitedto, Velcro, Velcro like (e.g., a region of a plurality of hooks and acomplimentary region of a plurality of loops, wherein these two regionsmay removably attach to each other), snaps, buttons, ties, side releasebuckles, combinations thereof, and/or the like. In some embodiments, aportion of attachment means 407 may be located on an exterior of magnetholder 401. In some embodiments, a portion of attachment means 407 maybe attached to a portion of interior cover 311 of rear panel 233; and/ora different portion of attachment means 407 may be attached to a portionof interior cover 311 of a front panel 231.

In some embodiments, a given PFD may comprise at least one drop-downmagnet apparatus. In some embodiments, the at least one drop-down magnetapparatus may exist in two operational configurations, a deployedconfiguration and a non-deployed configuration, respectively. In someembodiments, the at least one drop-down magnet apparatus may comprise atleast one magnet holder 401 and at least one tether 403. In someembodiments, at least one magnet holder 401 may be in physicalcommunication with at least one magnet 321. In some embodiments, atleast one tether 403 may be in physical communication with both at leastone magnet holder 401 and at least one panel (such as, but not limitedto, rear panel 233 and/or front panel 231) of the given PFD. In someembodiments, at least one tether 403 may be an elongate flexible member.In some embodiments, in the deployed configuration, at least one magnetholder 401 may be configured to sink below the at least one panel whenthe given PFD is in the water. In some embodiments, in the non-deployedconfiguration, at least one magnet holder 401 may be removably attachedto the at least one panel via attachment means 407. See e.g., FIG. 4Aand FIG. 4B.

FIG. 4B may depict a given PFD in a state of being unworn and beingopened at its front to show the interior (e.g., interior cover 311) ofthe rear panel 233 that may have the drop-down magnet apparatusdeployed.

FIG. 5 may depict a cross-section of a portion of a given PFD showingbefore deployment of where the drop-down magnet apparatus may bedisposed between a front panel 231 and rear panel 233 of the given PFD.FIG. 5 may show the drop-down magnet apparatus in its fully undeployedconfiguration. In some embodiments, when the drop-down magnet apparatusmay in its fully undeployed configuration, attachment means 407 may beremovably attached to a portion of interior cover 311 of rear panel 233;and/or attachment means 407 may be removably attached to a portion ofinterior cover 311 of a front panel 231. In the deployed configuration(see e.g., FIG. 4B), attachment means 407 may not currently be attachedto a front panel 231 nor to rear panel 233.

In some embodiments, a given PFD may comprise at least one front panel231 and at least one rear panel 233. In some embodiments, at least onefront panel 231 may be configured to cover at least a portion of a frontof a torso of the wearer when the wearer is properly wearing the PFD. Insome embodiments, at least one front panel 231 may comprise a firstfloatation means (e.g., floatation means 315) configured to providebuoyancy to the wearer. In some embodiments, this first floatation meansmay be located substantially inside (within) at least one front panel231. In some embodiments, at least one rear panel 233 may be configuredto cover at least a portion of a back of the torso of the wearer whenthe wearer is properly wearing the personal floatation device. In someembodiments, at least one rear panel 233 may comprise a secondfloatation means (e.g., a different floatation means 315) configured toprovide buoyancy to the wearer. In some embodiments, this secondfloatation means may be located substantially inside (within) at leastone rear panel 233. In some embodiments, at least one front panel 231and at least one rear panel 233 may be in physical communication witheach other via at least one intermediary linkage (e.g., shoulder region237 and/or a side panel or side strapping 213). In some embodiments, theat least one intermediary linkage (that may physically link a frontpanel 231 to a rear panel 233 of a given PFD) may be at least oneshoulder region 237. In some embodiments, at least one shoulder region237 may be configured to cover over a shoulder region of the wearer whenthe wearer is properly wearing the personal floatation device. In someembodiments, at least one magnet 321 may be attached to the at least oneshoulder region 237. See e.g., FIG. 2A, FIG. 2C, FIG. 3, FIG. 4A, FIG.4B, and/or FIG. 5.

In some embodiments, a given PFD may comprise at least two panels (suchas, but not limited to, front panel 231 and rear panel 233). In someembodiments, each of the at least two panels may comprise an exteriorcovering 211 and an interior covering 311. In some embodiments, exteriorcovering 211 and interior covering 311 of each of the at least twopanels may be mostly disposed opposite from each other. In someembodiments, exterior covering 211 may mostly faces away from a torso ofthe wearer when the wearer is properly wearing the personal floatationdevice. In some embodiments, interior covering 311 may mostly facetowards the torso of the wearer when the wearer is properly wearing thepersonal floatation device. In some embodiments, each of the at leasttwo panels may comprise at least one floatation means (e.g., floatationmeans 315). In some embodiments, the at least one floatation means maybe disposed between exterior covering 211 and interior covering 311 ofeach of the at least two panels. See e.g., FIG. 2A, FIG. 2C, FIG. 3,FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and/or FIG. 5. In some embodiments, at least onemagnet 321 may be located at one or more of: on exterior covering 211 ofat least one of the at least two panels; attached to exterior covering211 of at least one of the at least two panels; at least partiallyembedded to exterior covering 211 of at least one of the at least twopanels; on interior covering 311 of at least one of the at least twopanels; attached to interior covering 311 of at least one of the atleast two panels; at least partially embedded to interior covering 311of at least one of the at least two panels; between exterior covering211 and interior covering 311 of at least one of the at least twopanels; in physical communication with the at least one floatation meansof at least one of the at least two panels; portions thereof;combinations thereof; and/or the like. See e.g., FIG. 3.

In some embodiments, at least one magnet 321 may be located at one ormore of: on at least one front panel 231; attached to at least one frontpanel 231; partially embedded in at least one front panel 231; on anexterior covering of at least one front panel 231; on an interiorcovering of at least one front panel 231; on at least one rear panel233; attached to at least one rear panel 233; partially embedded in atleast one rear panel 233; on an exterior covering of at least one rearpanel 233; on an interior covering of at least one rear panel 233; inphysical communication with the first floatation means; in physicalcommunication with the second floatation means; portions thereof,combinations thereof; and/or the like. See e.g., FIG. 2A through FIG. 5.

In some embodiments, at least one magnet 321 may be at least oneelectromagnet. In some embodiments, the given PFD may comprise at leastone battery configured to electrically power at least one electromagnet321. In some embodiments, at least one electromagnet 321 may beoperatively linked with the at least one battery.

In some embodiments, a given PFD may comprise at least one compartment225 located on an exterior covering 211 of the PFD. In some embodiments,at least one compartment 225 may comprise at least one magnet 321. Seee.g., FIG. 2A through FIG. 3. In some embodiments, a given PFD maycomprise one or more compartment(s) 225. In some embodiments, a givencompartment 225 may be an enclosure on and/or of the given PFD. In someembodiments, a given compartment 225 may be substantially sealed closed.In some embodiments, a given compartment 225 may be removably closed(e.g., with a flap and/or a fastener 215). In some embodiments, a givencompartment 225 may be a pocket. In some embodiments, a givencompartment 225 may comprise one or more articles. In some embodiments,a given compartment 225 may house (hold) the one or more articles. Insome embodiments, the one or more articles may be at least onemagnetizable material, at least one magnet (e.g., magnet 321), at leastone battery (for electrical power). In some embodiments, a givencompartment 225 may be located on exterior cover 211. In someembodiments, a given compartment 225 may be located inside of exteriorcover 211.

In some embodiments, a system for repelling sharks may comprise at leastone PFD fitted with (and/or constructed with) at least one attachedmagnet 321; and that given PFD may also comprise at least one removablewearable magnet that may be removably attached (and detached) to thegiven PFD (such as, but not limited to, removably stored within a givencompartment 225); wherein during use, the at least one removablewearable magnet may be removed from the PFD and then removably worn bythe wearer. In some embodiments, the at least one removable wearablemagnet may be configured as a bracelet for fitting around a wrist of thewearer. In some embodiments, the at least one removable wearable magnetmay be configured as an anklet for fitting around an ankle of thewearer. In some embodiments, the at least one removable wearable magnetmay provide protection to extremities/appendages/limbs (such as, but notlimited to, hands, feet, arms, legs, and the like) of the wearer. Insome embodiments, the at least one attached magnet 321 and/or the atleast one removable wearable magnet may be configured to repel sharks.

Note, in some embodiments the above discussed magnet(s) (e.g., magnet(s)321) used in and/or on the various PFD apparatus elements for repellingsharks, are not intended to be used in a magnet's typical attractiveapplications.

However, in some embodiments, a magnet's attractive uses may be asecondary ancillary/collateral function of the magnet(s) (e.g.,magnet(s) 321) used for repelling sharks associated with the various PFDapparatus elements.

In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175, at least one magnet 321,magnets described and/or noted herein, may comprise one or moremagnetizable materials. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175, atleast one magnet 321, magnets described and/or noted herein, maycomprise one or more materials that are attracted to magnets. In someembodiments, at least one magnet 175, at least one magnet 321, magnetsdescribed and/or noted herein, may be at least one permanent magnet. Insome embodiments, at least one magnet 175, at least one magnet 321,magnets described and/or noted herein, may be at least oneelectromagnet. In some embodiments, at least one magnet 175, at leastone magnet 321, magnets described and/or noted herein, may be acombination of electromagnets and permanent magnets.

In some embodiments, the magnet(s) (e.g., magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s)321) discussed herein for repelling sharks may be selected frompermanent magnets and/or electromagnets. Note in general the magnet(s)(e.g., magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s) 321) discussed herein forrepelling sharks may be significantly stronger than a comparably sizedmagnet that is merely used for a magnet's attractive properties. In someembodiments, magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s) 321 may be permanentmagnet(s), that may be substantially constructed from at least one rareEarth metal. In some embodiments, magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s) 321 maybe permanent samarium magnet(s). In some embodiments, magnet(s) 175and/or magnet(s) 321 may be permanent samarium-cobalt magnet(s). In someembodiments, magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s) 321 may be permanentneodymium magnet(s). In some embodiments, magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s)321 may be permanent magnet(s), that may be substantially constructedfrom at least neodymium, iron, and boron (NdFeB). In some embodiments,magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s) 321 may be permanent magnet(s) of apredetermined grade. In some embodiments, magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s)321 may be permanent magnet(s) of grade N52, N55, combinations thereof,and/or the like. In other embodiments, magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s)321 may be permanent magnet(s) of another grade. In some embodiments,magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s) 321 may be sintered and/or bonded. Insome embodiments, magnet(s) 175 and/or magnet(s) 321 may be coated witha protective sheath, to minimize corrosion problems.

Note with respect to the materials of construction, it is not desirednor intended to thereby unnecessarily limit the present invention byreason of such disclosure.

Magnetized spearfishing shafts (or portion(s) thereof) and magnetizedPFDs (or portion(s) thereof) have been described. The foregoingdescription of the various exemplary embodiments of the invention hasbeen presented for the purposes of illustration and disclosure. It isnot intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the preciseform disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in lightof the above teaching without departing from the spirit of theinvention.

While the invention has been described in connection with what ispresently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments,it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to thedisclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A personal floatation device fitted with at leastone magnet that is configured to repel sharks away from the personalfloatation device; wherein the personal floatation device is configuredto minimize unintentional submerging of a face of a wearer of thepersonal floatation device within water wherein the personal floatationdevice comprises at least one panel and at least one drop-down magnetapparatus; wherein the at least one drop-down magnet apparatus exists intwo operational configurations, a deployed configuration and anon-deployed configuration, respectively; wherein the at least onedrop-down magnet apparatus comprises: at least one magnet holder that isin physical communication with the at least one magnet; at least onetether that is in physical communication with both the at least onemagnet holder and the at least one panel of the personal floatationdevice; wherein the at least one tether is an elongate flexible member;wherein in the deployed configuration, the at least one magnet holder isconfigured to sink below the at least one panel when the personalfloatation device is in the water; wherein in the non-deployedconfiguration, the at least one magnet holder is removably attached tothe at least one panel via attachment means.
 2. The personal floatationdevice according to claim 1, wherein the personal floatation devicecomprises: at least one front panel, wherein the at least one frontpanel comprises a first floatation means configured to provide buoyancyto the wearer; wherein the at least one front panel is configured tocover at least a portion of a front of a torso of the wearer when thewearer is properly wearing the personal floatation device; and at leastone rear panel, wherein the at least the one rear panel comprises asecond floatation means configured to provide buoyancy to the wearer;wherein the at least one front panel and the at least one rear panel arein physical communication with each other via at least one intermediarylinkage; wherein the at least the one rear panel is configured to coverat least a portion of a back of the torso of the wearer when the weareris properly wearing the personal floatation device; wherein the at leastone panel is selected from the at least one front panel, the at leastone rear panel, or another panel of the personal floatation device. 3.The personal floatation device according to claim 2, wherein thepersonal floatation device comprises at least one second magnet that islocated at one or more of: on the at least one front panel; attached tothe at least one front panel; partially embedded in the at least onefront panel; on an exterior covering of the at least one front panel; onan interior covering of the at least one front panel; on the at leastone rear panel; attached to the at least one rear panel; partiallyembedded in the at least one rear panel; on an exterior covering of theat least one rear panel; on an interior covering of the at least onerear panel; in physical communication with the first floatation means;or in physical communication with the second floatation means.
 4. Thepersonal floatation device according to claim 2, wherein the at leastone intermediary linkage is at least one shoulder region; wherein the atleast one shoulder region is configured to cover over a shoulder regionof the wearer when the wearer is properly wearing the personalfloatation device.
 5. The personal floatation device according to claim4, wherein the personal floatation device comprises at least one secondmagnet that is attached to the at least one shoulder region.
 6. Thepersonal floatation device according to claim 1, wherein the at leastone panel comprises: at least two panels, wherein each of the at leasttwo panels comprises an exterior covering and an interior covering;wherein the exterior covering and the interior covering of each of theat least two panels are mostly disposed opposite from each other;wherein each of the at least two panels comprises at least onefloatation means, wherein the at least one floatation means is disposedbetween the exterior covering and the interior covering of each of theat least two panels; wherein the exterior covering mostly faces awayfrom a torso of the wearer when the wearer is properly wearing thepersonal floatation device; and wherein the interior covering mostlyfaces towards the torso of the wearer when the wearer is properlywearing the personal floatation device.
 7. The personal floatationdevice according to claim 6, wherein the personal floatation devicecomprises at least one second magnet that is located at one or more of:on the exterior covering of at least one of the at least two panels;attached to the exterior covering of at least one of the at least twopanels; at least partially embedded to the exterior covering of at leastone of the at least two panels; on the interior covering of at least oneof the at least two panels; attached to the interior covering of atleast one of the at least two panels; at least partially embedded to theinterior covering of at least one of the at least two panels; betweenthe exterior covering and the interior covering of at least one of theat least two panels; or in physical communication with the at least onefloatation means of at least one of the at least two panels.
 8. Thepersonal floatation device according to claim 1, wherein the personalfloatation device comprises at least one compartment located on anexterior covering or on an interior covering of the personal floatationdevice; wherein the at least one compartment comprises the at least onemagnet.
 9. The personal floatation device according to claim 1, whereinthe at least one magnet is at least one electromagnet; wherein thepersonal floatation device comprises at least one battery configured toelectrically power the at least one electromagnet; wherein the at leastone electromagnet is operatively linked with the at least one battery.